What is China's National Congress of the Communist Party? How it works and how are leaders elected?

The 20th Communist Party Congress of China got underway in Beijing with the speech of President Xi Jinping. His two-hour speech outlined the government's and the party's policies for the next five years. Some of the critical policies that the government wants to tackle are national security, social stability, Covid Zero and protecting the environment.

This year's Congress will be a hugely significant meeting for the future of China and for the world. Xi Jinping is almost certain to be elected to a third five-year term as head of the government, party, and chairman of the central military commission of the world's second-largest economy. The politically important event will conclude on October 22.

What Is China's National Congress?

In the most crucial national congress, the 96 million-member Communist party decides on new promotions, key appointments, and amendments and outlines the vision for the next five years. The party members suggest changes to the report before drafting the final versions, which later undergo a voting process.

Before significant decisions are made, the party ensures to iron out potential in-house disputes and disagreements.

A Closed-Door Meet

A conclave of 2,296 'elected' delegates representing every Chinese province will gather at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing from Sunday for a weeklong meeting.

Who Are The Part Of The Communist Party National Congress?

Of 2,296 elected representatives of the national congress, 771 are 'frontline' party members who do not work within party bureaucracy. The members belong either to the armed forces or in technical, agriculture jobs. A state media report says no open campaigning is allowed in the process of election.

According to the state news agency, Xinhua, the national congress incorporates 11.5% minority representatives and 27% women, whereas, men from China's main 'Han' ethnic group dominate the party.

Going by the previous protocols, the new leadership is expected to be revealed the day after congress concludes.

What Is Expected To Happen At National Congress?

In the 20th national congress, China is expected to unveil new leaders chosen by Xi Jinping.

In this closed-door meeting, a list of 25 people "Politburo" will be compiled where top cadres form the powerful Politburo Standing Committee. The Politburo panel constitutes members ranging from five and nine.

200 Central Committee members then vote on each proposed candidate for both Politburo and its Standing committee.

The new General Secretary introduces the new Standing Committee to the media at the Great Hall of the People and briefs journalists about the party's further plans. The Standing Committee members enter the room in order of seniority, highest to lowest.

The key government positions are still to be determined and finalised at the Parliament's annual session, which mostly begins in March.

FAQs

1. How frequently Communist party congress happen?
   The Communist party of China convenes congress once every five years.
2. Who is China's Communist Party head in 2022?
   President Xi Jinping